Looking for a case with front mounted USB ports!

Kindjal

Senior member
Mar 30, 2001
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Does anyone know if there is a case manufacturer with front mounted USB ports, in addition to those in the rear?

My mobo has another connector for other USB slots and I would like to take advantage of it.

Thanks!
 

azdevil

Senior member
May 5, 2001
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I almost went the same way, but thoses Lian Li and Coolmaster cases cost a fortune. I have the same type of optional front USB motherboard. Put what I did, and I think is bettet, is I bought one of those usb motherboard to input adapters. They fit in a pci slot in the back of your case. You can get them anywhere. CompUSA, BBuy, Fry's. I have an Antec sx380 case, they make a 5.25 usb adapter that you can put in your "extra" slot facing the front of your case. I went with the rear adapter, 12.99 and bought a usb keyboard with two usb ports on the side. One for the mouse and one for my gamepad. Plus I don't have wires coming out of the front of my case. I've seen them, they are ugly and in the way.:)
But that is just my opinion, and as I have leardned from being engaged, my opinion is meaninghless!? :(
LOL :)
 

Doomer

Diamond Member
Dec 5, 1999
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Since my MB lacked the internal usb headers, I just bought a hub and set it within easy reach. Not the cleanest solution, but hey, it works for me.
 

Kindjal

Senior member
Mar 30, 2001
750
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On the Antech page they list something called Easy USB. Apparently the device connects to the front USB slot on the motherboard and fits in the a 5.25" bay leaving room for a 3.5" inch drive. My motherboard is apparently compatible.

Does anyone have experience with this device?
 

azdevil

Senior member
May 5, 2001
557
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I've seen the easy usb. The only problem that I can think of is that it is going to be in the mid to top part of your computer. It has to go into a 5.25 bay. If you case is on the floor as opossed to your desk, this might work out for you. As for the case, people in this forum rave about the Antec's, they also like the fong Kai's. If your willing to spen the cash, those Lian-Li cases are sweeeeeeet, so are the coolmasters. We are talking $200 dollars here, between a Lian Li w/ ps and the Antec sx380. Getting back to you question about the easy usb, it works the exact same way as if they were front mount usb's built into your case. The same motherboard to "female" usb plugs. Just awkward if you ask me.
 

Kindjal

Senior member
Mar 30, 2001
750
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Does Best Buy have the Antex SX830 in the store or only online? I have a Best Buy down the street but have not checked out their computer selections.

 

azdevil

Senior member
May 5, 2001
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Sorry, I don't know. If I had to guess I would say no. I know CompUSA has them in stores and online. They are, or were $99.99. Thats with a 300 watt antec ps. Its not bad. I think Best Buy is staying out of the build it yourself market. If you are on the west coast, Fry's Electronics has all the buil it yourself components, includeing Antec's sx830. The problem with online ordering is the shipping. They want $20+++. It might be worth your while to call around.
 

Kindjal

Senior member
Mar 30, 2001
750
1
81
Azdevil - you've been a big help. I found a local CompUsa that has the Sx830 in stock - $99 is fair when you factor in shipping from online retailers who must add shipping.

My proprietary mobo died and I have a replacement mobo (NOT proprietary) - how do the connectors from the power button, etc, connect to the mobo? The proprietary case has a bundle connector to a single female connection - will a nonproprietary case have these female connections seperated out?